Offline viewing has been a long-desired feature for Netflix subscribers. The company resisted it for years, saying that mobile networks would eventually advance to the point that you'd have no disconnected moments. But two things wore down Netflix's resistance in the last couple years. Rivals with offline viewing, likeAmazon's Prime video service, have become more competitive. In addition, Netflix's global expansion to places like India brought it to countries with weaker or spottier mobile networks, making downloads more valuable to members.

Some licensed shows and movies aren't available to watch offline, such as the BBC's "Sherlock" series or the Disney's animated hit "Zootopia." Even some Netflix originals, like "The Little Prince" film, can't be downloaded.

Netflix said more downloadable titles are on the way.

Members need to update their Netflix app and look for an arrow symbol next to a title to indicate downloading. Subscribers can also look to a new category on the Netflix app's side menu called "Available for Download," which collects all the programs you can watch offline.

The app update is available for both Apple iOS and Google Android devices.